Im getting super stressed out because I finally saved up enough for a nice Z body but now Im completely stuck on glass. I have a trip to Italy coming up in three weeks and I really dont wanna be carrying around a massive bag of primes while trying to hike around the coast. My budget is around 1200 bucks max and I just need one lens that does it all. Ive been reading everywhere that the 24-120mm f/4 is the ultimate travel king but then some reviewers on YouTube are saying the 24-200mm is way more versatile because of the extra reach. I keep going back and forth between them and honestly my head is spinning. Is the loss in aperture worth the extra zoom? I mostly shoot street stuff and some landscape shots but I also want something that wont leave me frustrated when I need to grab a quick portrait of my wife. Is the 24-120 actually sharper or is that just internet hype? I really cant afford to make the wrong choice before I fly out. What is the actual best all-around lens for a Z user like me?
Honestly, check out the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 if you prioritize low light. Just be careful with the focal range, but those portraits will look incredible, trust me.
Honestly, grab the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-120mm f/4 S. I used it for a month in Europe and was super satisfied. It is way sharper than the variable aperture kit lenses. The constant f/4 is just better for those portraits of your wife, giving you way more control. The 24-200mm is fine, but for travel, the S-line sharpness of the 24-120mm is the real winner. You wont regret it.
Saving this whole thread. So much good info here you guys are awesome.